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NATURAL HIGHS OF CHILL: CUT BACK ON CAFFEINE, SUGAR AND CIGARETTES: WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?

If you're going to make any serious attempt to reduce these harmful aspects of your diet and lifestyle, you're going to need healthy and enjoyable alternatives.

Sugar Most people go for artificial sweeteners, which are problematic too, so it's better to go for natural sweeteners like honey or malt syrups, but only in moderation. For drinks, have diluted sugar-free juices.

Coffee Ask in your local health food shop for similar-tasting alternatives to coffee such as Yannoh, Caro Extra, Bambu or dandelion coffee.

Tea Instead of regular black tea, try green tea - it has half the caffeine and more protective antioxidants. Another stimulating tea is peppermint. But as ever, the important thing is that you enjoy it, so find a herbal or fruit tea you like. The best relaxing teas are chamomile, passionflower, valerian and hops, often sold in combination. These also help promote a good night's sleep.

Any Precautions?

Don't think you have to do all or nothing here. If you can't or don't want to completely avoid these substances in your Lifestyle, then reducing them is still highly beneficial. Improving your health is not about rules, but rather about good habits, and being in control of your health means not being controlled by addictions.

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